Choosing the right thread for your sewing project is as crucial as selecting the right fabric or pattern. Whether you’re a seasoned tailor or a sewing enthusiast, understanding the differences between overlock thread and regular thread can significantly impact the quality and durability of your work.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what sets these two types of thread apart, when to use each, and how to make the best choice for your projects.
Topics Analyzed
What is Overlock Thread?
Overlock thread, also known as serger thread, is a specialized type of thread designed specifically for use with overlock or serger machines. These machines trim the edge of the fabric and stitch it simultaneously, creating a finished seam in one swift step.
Characteristics
- Thickness and Texture: Overlock thread is typically finer and smoother than regular thread. This allows it to be used in high-speed sewing without adding bulk to the seams.
- Elasticity and Durability: It has excellent stretch and recovery properties, making it ideal for sewing stretchy fabrics like knits. Despite being fine, it’s durable and can withstand the tension of high-speed sewing.
- Composition: Most overlock threads are made from polyester or nylon, materials known for their strength and elasticity. Polyester is particularly favored for its ability to resist shrinking and fading.
Common Uses
Decorative Stitching: Some overlock threads are available in vibrant colors, adding a decorative element to the seams.
Overlocking/Serging: Primarily used to finish seams and prevent fabric edges from fraying.
Seaming Stretchy Fabrics: Its elasticity makes it perfect for seams that need to stretch with the fabric, such as in activewear or swimwear.
What is Regular Thread?
Regular thread is the go-to choice for most sewing projects. It’s the standard thread used for hand sewing and most machine sewing, offering versatility for various fabrics and stitching techniques.
Characteristics
- Versatility and Availability: Regular thread is readily available in a vast range of colors, thicknesses, and materials, making it suitable for most sewing tasks.
- Thickness Variations: It comes in different weights (thicknesses), allowing you to choose the right one for your specific project.
- Material Types: Regular thread can be made from cotton, polyester, silk, or a blend. Each material has its unique qualities:
- Cotton: Ideal for natural fabrics, offering a soft finish.
- Polyester: A strong, durable option that works well with synthetic fabrics.
- Silk: A luxurious thread often used for delicate or high-end fabrics.
Common Uses
- General Sewing: Suitable for most fabric types, whether for constructing garments, quilting, or crafting.
- Hand Stitching: Perfect for small repairs, hemming, or decorative handwork.
- Machine Sewing: Works well with most sewing machines, providing a smooth, even stitch.
Comparison: Overlock Thread vs. Regular Thread
Strength and Durability
- Overlock Thread: While finer, overlock thread is surprisingly strong. Its durability is ideal for seams that undergo a lot of stress, like those in stretchy or fitted garments.
- Regular Thread: Regular thread is available in various strengths, with polyester threads being particularly strong and suitable for high-stress areas. Cotton threads, while strong, can be more prone to breakage under high tension.
Elasticity
- Overlock Thread: Designed to stretch with the fabric, making it perfect for knitwear, activewear, and other stretchy fabrics.
- Regular Thread: While some regular threads, especially those made from polyester, offer some elasticity, they generally lack the stretch and recovery of overlock thread.
Compatibility with Sewing Machines
- Overlock Thread: Specifically designed for overlock or serger machines. It can also be used in some regular sewing machines, but it’s not ideal for all stitches.
- Regular Thread: Compatible with most sewing machines and suitable for a wide range of stitches, from straight seams to decorative stitching.
Availability and Cost
- Overlock Thread: Slightly more expensive due to its specialized nature, and while available in various colors, it doesn’t have as wide a range as regular thread.
- Regular Thread: Widely available and generally more affordable, with an extensive selection of colors, materials, and weights.
Ease of Use
- Overlock Thread: Requires careful handling, especially when threading an overlock machine. It’s also usually sold on larger cones, which might not fit regular sewing machines without an adapter.
- Regular Thread: Easy to use, with straightforward threading and handling, whether by hand or machine.
When to Use Overlock Thread
Specific Sewing Projects
Overlock thread is indispensable for projects involving knit fabrics or garments requiring a lot of stretch, such as activewear, swimwear, and undergarments. Its ability to stretch without breaking ensures that seams remain intact even under strain.
Finishing Edges
One of the primary uses of overlock thread is in finishing the raw edges of fabric. An overlock machine trims the fabric edge and encloses it in a thread casing, preventing fraying and giving the garment a professional finish.
Creating Durable Seams
For garments that undergo a lot of movement, such as leggings or sports jerseys, overlock thread creates strong, flexible seams that move with the fabric, providing both durability and comfort.
When to Use Overlock Thread
Versatile Projects
Regular thread is suitable for a wide range of projects, from simple repairs to complex garment construction. Its versatility makes it a staple in any sewing kit.
Topstitching and Decorative Work
Regular thread is ideal for topstitching, where visible stitches add a decorative element to garments. It’s also perfect for decorative stitching patterns, as it provides a clean, consistent appearance.
Machine vs. Hand Sewing
Regular thread is preferred for hand sewing due to its smooth handling and ability to be easily knotted. It’s also compatible with most sewing machines, making it the go-to choice for everyday sewing tasks.
Tips for Choosing the Right Thread
Fabric Considerations
When selecting thread, consider the fabric’s weight, stretch, and composition. For heavy fabrics, choose a stronger thread. For stretchy fabrics, opt for overlock thread to ensure the seams can move with the fabric.
Project Type
Match your thread choice to the project’s needs. For seams that will be under stress or need to stretch, overlock thread is the better option. For general construction, repairs, or decorative stitching, regular thread works well.
Machine Compatibility
Ensure the thread is suitable for your sewing machine. Overlock thread may require adapters or specific machine settings, while regular thread is more universally compatible.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between overlock thread and regular thread depends on the specific requirements of your sewing project. Overlock thread excels in creating durable, stretchy seams and finishing edges, making it ideal for knit fabrics and garments that need to withstand movement.
Regular thread, on the other hand, offers versatility, ease of use, and a wide range of options for both hand and machine sewing.
By understanding the strengths and characteristics of each thread type, you can make informed decisions that enhance the quality and durability of your sewing projects.
So, next time you start a project, consider the fabric, the function, and the finish you want, and select the thread that best meets those needs.
